Calgary’s iconic Stephen Avenue transformed in effort to attract more visitors

Calgary's iconic Stephen Avenue has undergone a significant transformation, receiving a fresh look with new trees, seating, lighting, and signage, alongside crucial infrastructure repairs beneath the street. The city is now rolling out the "See You on Stephen Avenue" campaign, aiming to draw more people to dine and shop in this historic downtown core.

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For nearly 150 years (this) has been a place of community, of commerce, and a central feature of our downtown that we continue to build our future.

Mayor Jeromy Farkas highlighted the avenue's historical significance, stating, "For nearly 150 years (this) has been a place of community, of commerce, and a central feature of our downtown that we continue to build our future." He emphasized that the project lays the foundation for the city's growth, anticipating a future with millions of residents.

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This project represents the next hundred years, and as our city grows to welcome two million people, three million people and more, when we look around today, we see the foundations of that story.

However, the revitalization efforts aim to combat lingering concerns over public safety and social disorder, which have deterred visitors. Calgarians like Andrea Beauchamp noted that cleaning up the area and addressing these issues would likely attract more people. Steve McCann echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while improvements are welcome, the area still needs more foot traffic and support for its vulnerable populations.

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I think if they cleaned it up, obviously there are some issues here, it would bring more people here. I think a lot of people avoid the area because of some things.

Calgary Police Chief Katie McLellan assured that public safety is being addressed, citing the launch of "Operation Restore" on June 25th. This sustained, high-visibility initiative specifically targets Stephen Avenue and the East Village, areas identified as hotspots for crime and social disorder, aiming to make the downtown thrive for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.

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It would be good to kind of revitalize the area. I know over the last few years it’s taken a bit of a hit and some of the more vulnerable population have been more prominent down here.